James Lancsek Seeks a Four-Year Term as a Lower Macungie Commissioner

Editor's note: Three candidates, two Republicans and a Democrat, are running for two four-year seats as commissioners in Lower Macungie Township. Each was asked the same four questions, and Patch brings them to you in alphabetical order today.

Republican James Lancsek is running for his first term as Lower Macungie Commissioner.  He resides with his wife of 32 years, Kathleen, at 5445 Prophets Way.  They have one son, Mark, 26.

Born and raised in West Bethlehem, Lancsek, 60, is a decorated U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War era. He was stationed in the U.S. and Europe during that time period. 

He has been a civil engineering technician with Keystone Consulting Engineers, Inc., Wescosville, for 27 years, and has spent the past 20 years as the township’s zoning officer.

Lancsek is a member of the Institute of Transportation Engineers and The American Society of Highway Engineers.  He is also a member of the American Legion, the Alburtis Rod and Gun Club, and the Emmaus Rotary Club.  He currently serves on the Real Estate Development Committee of the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation, and also served on the Lehigh-Northampton Planning Commission for 10 years.

Why are you running for Lower Macungie Commissioner?  “I am running for this position to offer the residents of Lower Macungie Township a choice. I bring 35 years of experience, working with local governments in the engineering, planning and zoning disciplines. Serving as zoning officer for the past 20 years, I offer my unique history of the township so future boards are better informed as to past mistakes which have resulted in unnecessary costs for the taxpayers of Lower Macungie Township.”

What do you feel is the biggest issue in Lower Macungie Township?  "The biggest issue in the township is the budget.  I will work to control spending and advance our relationship with the East Penn School District."

How do you feel about Gov. Tom Corbett’s proposed budget and what it will do for education?  "The cuts will flow down to local governments where programs will have to be cut or taxes raised to fund them. School districts are already getting hammered."

What are your plans for Lower Macungie Township?  “I believe in development through smart growth and the preservation of open space.  I support a strong recreational program for our youth and continued support for our local fire company.”